在皇后鞋裡散步 A walk in the empress shoes Zài huánghòu xié lǐ sànbù

CHAPTER THREE

Xui Ying's gaze softened as he looked at Mama Chunhua, who had always been a loyal and caring presence in his life. He appreciated her efforts to ensure his comfort and well-being, even in the simplest of tasks, like offering him a cup of warm honey tea.

Turning his attention to Biyu, the young master's personal maid, he noticed her enthusiasm in suggesting a chrysanthemum bath. Biyu's playful nature often brought a smile to Xui Ying's face, but at this moment, he couldn't help but feel a pang of annoyance.

"Mama Chunhua, thank you for the tea," Xui Ying said, his voice calm but tinged with a hint of weariness. "However, I don't think a bath is necessary right now."

Biyu's face fell slightly, a hint of disappointment evident in her eyes. Xui Ying understood her intentions, but he craved a moment of solitude to gather his thoughts before immersing himself in the luxuries of his former life.

"I appreciate your concern, Biyu," Xui Ying continued, his tone tender. "But for now, I simply wish to rest and reflect. Please, give me some time alone."

Biyu nodded, understanding her master's need for solitude. Due to his previous kind-hearted nature, he had overlooked many of Biyu's rule-breaking actions. But, his affectionate treatment towards her ultimately led to her premature demise at such a tender age. He gazed at the petite and delicate figure of this young girl, her face round and radiant, as if it held a constant stream of words. Her hair was neatly styled, adorned with a delicate silver butterfly hairpin, adding to her adorable appearance.

Xui Ying reminisced about the time she was brought to him at the tender age of seven, and ever since, he had developed a fondness for this maid. He always ensured that his servants were provided with the best, unlike the lower-ranked ones. However, Biyu began to feel uneasy as her young master scrutinized her. His eyes, upon awakening, lacked the warmth she was accustomed to, instead emitting an icy coldness that sent shivers down her spine.

"I will bathe now," Xui Ying declared, removing his robe and making his way towards the bathing rooms.

The transformation in the young master was evident to everyone present. The once vibrant smile and warm interactions with his servants had vanished. Though Xui Ying appeared cold and detached on the surface, his inner turmoil was intense. He refused to allow that man to claim the throne in this lifetime. Love would not cloud his judgment this time; he had to establish a solid foundation before the impending edict in a few days.Stepping out of the bathing chambers and into his personal quarters, Xui Ying caught sight of his formal attire delicately placed on a tray next to his bed. Seeking assistance, he turned to Mama Chunhua.

"Please dress me. I must see Father," he requested earnestly.

Recalling the circumstances correctly, Xui Ying knew that his transformation was imminent. Unable to bestow upon his favored son the throne, the Emperor instead opted to gift him military authority by arranging a marriage between He Shuren and the son of the Minister of War.

Shrewd and cunning, Shuren would exploit this opportunity to charm Xui Ying and secure the unwavering allegiance of his own father.Xui Ying's lips formed a subtle curve as he strolled away from his tranquil courtyard towards his father's study. As he approached the entrance, his eyes caught sight of the two guards stationed there, who respectfully lowered their heads and greeted him, "Young Master Ying."

"Is my father present?" Xui Ying inquired, his voice laced with anticipation.

"Xui Ying, is that you?" A deep, resonant voice echoed from within the study.

"Yes, father," Xui Ying responded, his heart brimming with a mixture of respect and eagerness.Xui stepped into the room, bathed in the warm glow of the bright lights His father, the commanding figure of the army, sat behind his desk, exuding an imposing aura. The desk itself was adorned with stacks of important documents, catching Xui's curious gaze before he settled into a chair. Despite the rainy season, the room offered a comforting warmth, though a hint of chill still lingered outside.

"I heard you were under the weather. How is your body faring now?"En," Xui replied softly. Though he had come to speak with his father, he felt uncertain about how to broach the subject. He was fully aware of his father's unwavering loyalty to the emperor and the kingdom despite whoever ruled over it. His father always aimed to avoid taking sides in the treacherous political warfare that plagued their land. However, he knew that what he was about to say might inevitably place them in a precarious situation.

Still, he refused to allow his clan to perish.With determination burning in his eyes, Xui Ying cleared his throat and locked gazes with his father. His father had always emphasized the importance of strategy, and now it was time for Xui Ying to put those lessons into practice. Originally, he had been preparing to take the imperial exam the following year, but when the unexpected change occurred and the edict was delivered, his father knew that their plans had to shift. He started grooming Xui Ying to enter the palace, while his younger brother, born to a concubine but raised by their mother, would take his place in the imperial exam.

"Father, a flower as form on my inner risk, this means the transformation with my body will happen soon ," Xui Ying expressed, searching his father's eyes for any trace of disappointment. However, to his surprise, he found something entirely unexpected. His father appeared resigned, yet not surprised.

General Ying let out a sigh and averted his gaze from his son. He understood that Xui Ying possessed great strength and intelligence, and if he were to assume the role of clan leader, he would undoubtedly bring glory to the Wang clan.

"I understand, ying er."